We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
All 12 Bodh Gaya Attractions »

Mahabodhi Temple

Bodhgaya, Bodh Gaya, India
Ranked #1 of 12 attractions in Bodh Gaya
5.0 of 5 stars 29 Reviews
Type: Religious Sites, Architectural Buildings
Owner description: One of the most sacred places for Buddhists, the temple is an imposing example of early brick structures in India. It holds the diamond throne, a...... more » Owner description: One of the most sacred places for Buddhists, the temple is an imposing example of early brick structures in India. It holds the diamond throne, a colossal image of Buddha and the holy Bodhi tree. « less
Useful Information: Activities for older children, Activities for young children
Update attraction details
Write a Review

29 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    21
    8
    0
    0
    0
Date Rating
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Senior Contributor
38 reviews 38 reviews
Reviews in 17 cities Reviews in 17 cities
24 helpful votes 24 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 13 May 2012

A beatiful hugely important place for Buddhists. Well preserved amidst the chaos and dirt of Bodh Gaya and very inspiring with lots of pujas and other festivals being held in each corner, and mostly many people meditating quietly. Only negative is the very aggressive begging at the gates, small birds cruelly locked up only to be freed to improve your... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Kuwait
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 27 April 2012

Very spiritual! Lots of visitors from all around the world, very peaceful and enlightening spot! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Madison, Wisconsin, United States
2 reviews
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 April 2012
1
person found this review helpful

The canopy of the bodhi tree covers a large area so many visitors and pilgrims feel immersed in a living temple. The approach to the bodhi tree side feels like an alter, but space is allowed to let people circumambulate the tree and main temple without disturbing groups gathered on the approach. The temple feels intimate and grand at the... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Moncton
Top Contributor
56 reviews 56 reviews
Reviews in 22 cities Reviews in 22 cities
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 20 April 2012

There are plenty of beggars and crowds to content with but there is also a sanctuary where you can peacefully connect with the sacredness of the Lord Buddha, when you stand under an offshoot of the pipal tree where he reached enlightenment. I spent nearly a week in this area and each day returned here for longer and longer periods.... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
London
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 3 April 2012

Be careful with beggar. Must participate in one day Meditation class. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Contributor
12 reviews 12 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 2 April 2012

I was awed at the magnificence of the Mahabodhi Temple and the surroundings were so peaceful even in the midst of crowds. It just makes you want to be there even doing nothing! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by TkLim07 for Bodh Gaya
Hyderabad, India
2 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 3 March 2012

Serene, very peaceful. There is a pipal tree under which Buddha reached enlightenment. The present tree is an offshoot of the original. People who have faith and honour for buddhism and also of other religion will like it.Food is not a problem. The only drawback is the roads They are badly in need of repair and cleaning. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
canada
Top Contributor
69 reviews 69 reviews
Reviews in 42 cities Reviews in 42 cities
29 helpful votes 29 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 2 March 2012

This temple is the symbol of the eternal knot, the Beacon of knowledge. 2500 years ago Buddha was unlighted here so they build this shrine of wisdom and compassion under a big tree call "the Buddha tree" . Before the place was a place of Grandeur, but now it sadly change. It looks like a workout around the main place;... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
hong kong
Senior Contributor
27 reviews 27 reviews
Reviews in 10 cities Reviews in 10 cities
17 helpful votes 17 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 1 March 2012

A must visit place for Bodhgaya! Beautiful and peaceful. You can sit and meditate or just watch the others pray and meditate. Go in the early morning or evenings to get a different atmosphere. This really is the place Lord Buddha attained enlightenment! Beautiful!!! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Dublin, Ireland
Top Contributor
185 reviews 185 reviews
Reviews in 124 cities Reviews in 124 cities
203 helpful votes 203 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 22 February 2012

Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage sights for Buddhist from all over the world and different traditions. 55-meter-high main temple is easily visible from outside, but you must enter inside to feel the place. Outside it's crazy, crowded and dirty, but when you enter it, nobody (almost) bothers you, tries to sell you some... More

Was this review helpful? Yes

Travellers who viewed Mahabodhi Temple also viewed

Root Institute
4.5 of 5 stars 8 Reviews
Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Nalanda
4 of 5 stars 11 Reviews
Patna, Bihar
 
Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum
3 of 5 stars 3 Reviews
Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Been to Mahabodhi Temple? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Mahabodhi Temple, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing
See all sites
Cruise Critic

The ultimate cruise resource: cruise reviews, deals, news and advice.

SeatGuru

The world's most comprehensive source for airline seats, airline info, & in-flight amenities.

Family Vacation Critic

The best family holidays start here.

Get the #1 travel app FREE>>
Take TripAdvisor with you

Find 50 million reviews & opinions of hotels, things to do, restaurants and more

GET IT
Named "#1 Travel App" by Frommer's